Welcome back to the Green and Gold, Gio Aplon.
The ex-Stormers fullback’s return to the national team at the age of 36 probably has come a bit too late.
In my book, Aplon should have had a lot more than the 17 Test caps he currently has to his name.
But his recall at that age has probably not gone down too well with everyone.
And that’s the case for two veterans who were called up to the Springbok squad for their year-end tour to the UK - the other is hooker Schalk Brits.
Let’s start with Aplon.
BRINGING THE KNOW-HOW: Old man Schalk Brits. Photo: GAVIN BARKER/BACKPAGEPIX
Capetonians will know that Cheslin Kolbe, who is also in the squad, has a similar game to that of Aplon.
In fact, he was the next Aplon when the former Stormers ace left to further his career abroad.
Inexperienced
Now Kolbe, albeit inexperienced at Test level, is experienced enough in his position and knows the European conditions as well as any.
And that’s why I believe coach Rassie Erasmus missed a trick by bringing in Aplon instead of rewarding local Currie Cup form.
If a booming left boot from the back was what was needed, then WP’s SP Marais certainly ticks that box.
POINTS MACHINE: Province fullback SP Marais. Photo: CHRIS RICCO/BACKPAGEPIX
The top points-scorer in the Currie Cup, it would have made sense to give Marais a run overseas.
What was probably the most concerning thing for Erasmus was that he would have lacked experience at fullback in the absence of Willie le Roux.
But that’s where you trust the next generation and Damian Willemse has already been pencilled in as a starter in the absence of Le Roux.
What Aplon does bring, though, is experience on the wing and this is probably the biggest reason for his selection.
In Aphiwe Dyantyi and Sbu Nkosi, the Springboks have rather inexperienced wingers playing in those conditions.
But wouldn’t it have made sense then to bring in a back-three consultant with recent playing experience to help prep the youngsters?
When Erasmus first called up Brits, I understood his reasoning.
He wanted this guy to impart some knowledge on the youngsters within the squad.
But instead of roping in these ou manne, and sticking with them, Erasmus should have pulled them in as mentors.
Player-coaches is what I believe they are.
Instead, the call-up of Brits has come at the expense of Sharks hooker Akker van der Merwe, who won the Man of the Match award in the Currie Cup final.
IN-FORM No.2: Akker van der Merwe. Photo: BACKPAGEPIX
The omission of the Du Preez twins (Jean-Luc and Dan) is another selection that hasn’t gone by unnoticed on social media platforms.
These guys have every right to feel a little hartseer today.
Having said that, I just want to congratulate Aplon on his call-up and hopefully he can get a shot at the William Webb Ellis trophy for the last time next year.